Perceived Influence of Operational Strategies on Performance of Weighbridges in Kenya

Abstract

The objective of study was to determine the perceived influence of operational strategies on the performance of weighbridges in Kenya. The study adopted crosssectional descriptive design. The target population was 5 weighbridge cluster managers and 30 assistant managers in the 10 weighbridges in Kenya. Since the population was small the study adopted a census study therefore all the 35 respondents (5 weighbridge cluster managers and 30 assistant managers) formed the sample size of the study. The study collected primary data through use of a questionnaire which will have both closed and open-ended questions. The questionnaire which was administered by the researcher through drop and pick later method. The data collected was first edited, coded, entered into a software (SPSS version 20) which also aided in the data analysis. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were adopted for the study. The qualitative data was generated from the open ended questions and was categorized in themes in accordance with research objectives and reported in narrative form along with quantitative presentation. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics which included frequency distribution tables and measures of central tendency (the mean), measures of variability (standard deviation) and measures of relative frequencies. The inferential statistics included a correlation analysis which established the relationship between variables. Data was presented using tables, charts and graphs. The study found out that innovativeness driven operations strategy, quality-driven operations strategy, flexibility driven operations strategy and reliability driven operations strategy had been adopted in the weighbridges to a great extent. Adoption of these operational strategies had been prompted by the need to: improve operations processes; improve efficiency at the weighbridges; increase capacity of the weighbridges; and need to improve quality of the services offered at the weighbridges. The operational strategies had improved operational efficiency at the weighbridges, enhanced the quality of services offered at the weighbridges, increased the capacity of the weighbridges, and improved customers satisfaction. The study concludes that the implementation of operational strategies influenced performance of weighbridges in Kenya. The study recommends for continued improvements at weighbridges in terms of increased use of technology, enhancing speed and increasing capacity in the weighbridge in order to increase compliance with the axle load limits and further enhance efficiency of road transport along the Northern Corridor by eliminating unnecessary congestion at the weighbridges. There is also need for increased and regular training of staff at the weighbridges in order to equip them with the right skills and also change their attitude.